Modular push switch mechanism

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to switch device that includes a switch actuator having a user-accessible surface, the user accessible surface including an indicator element and an interior channel optically coupled to the indicator element. The switch actuator is configured to actuate a mechanical linkage by moving between a first actuator position and a second actuator position in response to a user-stimulus, the mechanical linkage actuation driving the set of electrical contacts between a first contact state and a second contact state. A light emitting portion is disposed within the interior channel and optically coupled to the indicator element so that the interior channel moves relative to the light emitting portion when the switch actuator moves between the first actuator position and the second actuator position. The light emitting portion is optically coupled to the indicator element when the interior channel moves relative to the lighting portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,195, filed on Mar. 1, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/680,675 filed on Nov. 19, 2012, the contents of which are relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 is hereby claimed, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/680,675 claims priority under to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/635,432, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, and the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) is hereby claimed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to electric switches, and particularly to electric switches that include mechanical actuators.

2. Technical Background

Electrical switches are used, of course, to control the state of electrical loads such as lighting elements, fans, and other such equipments. Electrical switch units are typically wall mounted in a location that is proximate the load. For example, light switches are usually located at the entry point of a room or a space so that a person entering the room can turn the lights ON before entering. Wall mounted electrical switches often include mechanical actuators such as toggle switch actuators, lever switch actuators, paddle switch actuators, push-button actuators and the like.

Based on consumer taste and convenience, there is a need for a push button actuated electrical switch. The push button switches currently on the market almost always include electronic switch actuators because of the in-out motion of a push switch lends itself to electronic push-button switch actuators rather than mechanical switch actuators. However, electronic switch actuators have drawbacks relative to mechanical switch actuators. They are more expensive, generate more thermal energy (heat), are larger, and are not as robust. What is needed, therefore, is a push button switch that includes a mechanical actuator to mitigate the aforementioned drawbacks.

In one approach that has been considered, a push button actuator is coupled to a rotatable block by a pressure-transmission gear. This approach has several drawbacks associated with it. The pressure-transmission gear is laterally unstable and the interface between the pressure-transmission gear and the rotatable block is prone to being jammed when the user applies downward pressure to the push button actuator. Another drawback to this approach relates to the tendency for contaminants to enter the mechanical switch space and fouling the switch contacts. What is needed, therefore, is a push button switch that includes a mechanical actuator that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.

Another issue that arises in various types of switching devices relates to the function and placement of indicator lights on the switching device itself. Some switches are known to include a pilot light that is illuminated when the switch is turned OFF. A load light is one that is illuminated when the switch is turned ON; this type of light provides the user with an indication that power is being delivered to the load. Another type of indicator is a “power-available light.” This indicator shows the user that power is available to the switch, and thus, is illuminated—when power is available—regardless of whether the switch is ON or OFF. One drawback associated with mechanical switch devices (that include indicator lights) relates to the fact that the switch actuator is movable. If the light indicator element within the switch moves with the switch actuator, then the light output is substantially uniform. On the other hand, the electrical wiring must move with the light element (to provide electricity); as a result, the wiring is continually being flexed. If, on the other hand, the light indicator element within the switch is stationary, the continual flexure of the electrical wiring is avoided while providing the mechanical switch actuator freedom of motion. The drawback with this solution is that the light output of a stationary light will be non-uniform. For one type of indicator light or another, the light output will be more effective in one actuator position than another. This issue becomes especially apparent for the power-available light or for universal light assemblies that can be wired by the installer to accomplish the various functions. What is needed, therefore, is an indicator arrangement (within the switch) that provides efficient and consistent light output regardless of actuator position.

Turning now to another consideration, there are several drawbacks associated with conventional installation methods and conventional protective electrical wiring devices. Conventional protective electrical wiring devices often do not make efficient use of space. In addition, mounting the wiring device's ground strap to the device box is tedious, time consuming, and therefore costly. The same can be said of mounting the cover plate to the electrical wiring device. Moreover, in multi-gang installations, the finished look is often ragged because the plurality of electrical devices and their respective cover plates are typically not in alignment. This misalignment can be, and very often is, in all three dimensions. Retrofitting an electrical installation can also be problematic from the standpoint of the finished look because the device box, or an old work box, may not be precisely aligned to the plane of the wall surface. This is especially true if the wall surface itself is uneven. After remodeling a space, homeowners often seek to replace an existing wall plate with one that better matches the new décor. Thus, a homeowner may inadvisably remove the faceplate cover from an energized wiring device and inadvertently become exposed to a shock hazard from the “hot” electrical wiring.

What is needed therefore is a switch that addresses the drawbacks articulated above. A switch of this type is also needed that can be employed in a number of different form factors including one suitable for use in a modular framing system such that it does not require fasteners to be securely installed within the device box.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses the needs described above by providing a push-switch with a mechanical switch actuator that addresses the drawbacks articulated above. The switch of the present invention can be employed in a number of different form factors including a form factor suitable for use in a modular framing system.

One aspect of the present invention is directed to a switch that includes a device housing configured to be installed in an outlet box, the device housing including front portion and a back body portion. A switch assembly is disposed in the device housing, the switch assembly including a switch actuator having a user-accessible surface and coupled to the front portion. The user accessible surface includes an indicator element disposed therein. The switch actuator also includes an interior channel optically coupled to the indicator element. The switch assembly further includes a mechanical linkage and a set of electrical contacts disposed within the back body portion. The switch actuator is configured to actuate the mechanical linkage by moving between a first actuator position and a second actuator position in response to a user-stimulus, the mechanical linkage actuation driving the set of electrical contacts between a first contact state and a second contact state. A lighting assembly is coupled to the back body portion at a fixed position so that a light emitting portion of the lighting assembly is disposed within the interior channel and optically coupled to the indicator element. The interior channel is configured to move relative to the light emitting portion when the switch actuator moves between the first actuator position and the second actuator position. The light emitting portion is optically coupled to the indicator element when the interior channel moves relative to the lighting portion.

In one embodiment, the lighting assembly is a modular component removably coupled to the back body portion.

In one embodiment, the back body portion includes an elongated chamber configured to accommodate the lighting assembly, the elongated chamber including a tapered portion configured to position the light emitting portion at the fixed position.

In one embodiment, the switch actuator includes a light transmitting element configured to optically couple the interior channel to the indicator element.

In one version of the embodiment, the light transmitting element is in a fixed positional relationship with the interior channel.

In one version of the embodiment, the light transmitting element includes an LED element.

In one embodiment, the switch actuator includes a light transmitting element having a first optical port and a second optical port, the first port being coupled to the indicator element and the second port being coupled to the interior channel, and wherein the first optical port is substantially aligned with a central axis of the device housing and the second optical port is substantially offset from the axis.

In one version of the embodiment, the light transmitting element includes a plurality of light transmitting segments disposed between the first port and the second ports.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of light transmitting segments includes at least one portion configured to direct incident light at a 45° angle.

In one embodiment, the interior channel is polished.

In one embodiment, the interior channel is plated with an optically reflective material.

In one embodiment, the set of electrical contacts are switchably coupled to a plurality of terminals at least partially disposed in the back body portion, the plurality of terminals being accessible via the back body portion.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of terminals including a line terminal, a load terminal or a traveler terminal.

In one embodiment, the indicator element is a lens element.

In one version of the embodiment, the lens element is formed by machining a portion of the user accessible surface.

Another aspect of the invention is directed to a switch device that includes a switch actuator assembly having a switch actuation plate coupled to an actuator guide portion that has a perimeter guide wall substantially enclosing an interior volume therewithin. The actuator guide portion is coupled to a force transmission member and further includes an interior channel. The switch actuation plate includes a lens element optically coupled to a light transmission structure at least partially disposed in the interior channel. A back body member includes a perimeter back body wall, portions of the perimeter back body wall being configured to mate with corresponding portions of the perimeter guide wall so that the perimeter guide wall is disposed within the perimeter back body wall in a nesting arrangement so that the interior volume is substantially inaccessible to an exterior region of the device. The back body member includes an elongated chamber configured to position a lighting element at a fixed position within the back body so that the lighting element extends into the interior channel. The actuator guide is configured to slide within the back body member in a substantially linear motion between a non-switch actuating position and a switch actuating position so that a relative distance between the light transmission structure and the lighting element varies within the interior channel. The interior channel is configured so that light intensity emitted by the lighting element via the lens element is substantially constant while the relative distance varies. A mechanical switch assembly configured to convert the linear motion of the actuator guide into a rotational movement when the switch actuator plate is depressed so that the mechanical switch mechanism moves between a first switch state and a second switch state.

In one embodiment, the interior channel is polished.

In one embodiment, the interior channel is plated with an optically reflective material.

In one embodiment, the light transmitting element includes a first optical port and a second optical port, the first port being coupled to the lens element and the second port being coupled to the interior channel, and wherein the first optical port is substantially aligned with a central axis of the device housing and the second optical port is substantially offset from the axis.

In one version of the embodiment, the light transmitting element includes a plurality of light transmitting segments disposed between the first port and the second ports.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of light transmitting segments includes at least one portion configured to direct incident light at a 45° angle.

In one embodiment, the actuator guide portion includes a plurality of guide portions formed in the perimeter wall within the interior volume, the perimeter back body wall having a plurality of registration elements, each of the plurality of registration elements being insertably disposed within a corresponding one of the plurality of guide portions.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of registration elements are configured to substantially prevent rotational movement of the actuator guide within the back body member about an axis of the switch device normal to the direction of linear movement.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of registration elements are configured to substantially prevent rotational movement of the actuator guide within the back body member about the central axis.

In one version of the embodiment, the guide elements includes a first guide channel and a second guide channel formed on a first perimeter guide wall and a second perimeter guide wall, respectively, and a first guide post and a second guide post formed on a third perimeter guide wall and a fourth perimeter guide wall, respectively.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of registration elements includes a first registration column and a second registration column configured to be inserted within the first guide channel and the second guide channel, respectively, so that the first registration column, the second registration column, the first guide channel and the second guide channel are substantially disposed within the interior volume.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of registration elements includes a first registration key way and a second registration key way configured to retain therewithin the first guide post and the second guide post, respectively, so that the first registration key way, the second registration key way, the first guide post and the second guide post are substantially disposed outside the interior volume.

In one embodiment, the lighting element includes a light emitting diode.

In one version of the embodiment, the back body includes a rear portion coupled to the perimeter back body wall, the elongated chamber including an ingress aperture formed in the rear portion, and wherein the lighting element is removably disposed in the elongated chamber.

In one version of the embodiment, the lighting element is directly terminated to a source of AC power.

In one embodiment, the switch actuator assembly includes a transmission mechanism coupled to the actuator guide, the transmission mechanism being configured to convert the linear motion of the actuator guide into a rotational movement when the switch actuator plate is depressed and the actuator guide is driven toward the switch actuating position.

In one version of the embodiment, the transmission mechanism includes a plurality of gear teeth, the plurality of gear teeth being configured to apply a rotational movement to the mechanical switch mechanism in response to the linear motion of the actuator guide.

In one version of the embodiment, the device further comprises a switch actuator portion coupled between the transmission mechanism and at least a portion of the mechanical switch assembly, the switch actuator portion being configured to move the mechanical switch assembly between the first switch state and the second switch state in response to the rotational movement of the transmission mechanism.

In one embodiment, the device further comprises a housing having a front portion and a back body portion, the housing being configured to be installed in an outlet box.

In one version of the embodiment, the mechanical switch mechanism includes a set of electrical contacts switchably coupled to a plurality of terminals at least partially disposed in the back body portion, the plurality of terminals being accessible via the back body portion.

In one version of the embodiment, the plurality of terminals including a line terminal, a load terminal or a traveler terminal.

In one version of the embodiment, the housing assembly further comprises a separator member coupled between the back body member and the switch actuator assembly, the separator member providing a barrier between the mechanical switch assembly and the interior volume.

In one version of the embodiment, the separator member includes at least one ancillary registration element configured to mate with a corresponding structure disposed in the perimeter guide wall.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the invention as described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary of the invention, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the invention as it is claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operation of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1B are perspective views of a frame member in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 2A-2D are perspective views of a modular alignment connector in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 3A-3B are isometric views of the push-switch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 4A-4B are isometric view of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A prior to insertion into the frame depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A;

FIGS. 6A-6B show a sectional view of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A;

FIGS. 7A-7C show alternate sectional views of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A;

FIGS. 8A-8B show yet another sectional view of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A;

FIGS. 9A-9E show various sectional views illustrating the operation of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A; and

FIGS. 10A-10B show various views of the push-switch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the present exemplary embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. An exemplary embodiment of the push switch of the present invention is shown in FIG. 3, and is designated generally throughout by reference numeral 100.

As embodied herein, and depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B, perspective views of a frame member 10 in accordance with the present invention are disclosed. FIG. 1A is directed to the rear side 10-2 of the frame member 10, whereas FIG. 1B is directed to the front side 10-1 of the frame member 10. The frame member 10 is configured to “complete the electrical enclosure” when one or more modular electrical devices such as device 100, and/or modular alignment connectors 20 are properly installed within the frame opening 10-13 such that the device wall box interior is substantially inaccessible. Reference is made to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/608,675, which is incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth in its entirety, for a more detailed explanation of other electrical wiring devices that may be used in combination with device 100 to render the wall box interior substantially inaccessible. Stated differently, instead of using a conventional wall plate to complete the enclosure, the frame member 10 together with the assemblage of wiring devices and/or modular alignment connectors prevents individuals from being shocked or electrocuted by concealing all electrical wiring under the frame 10 within the device wall box interior.

Thus, a frame enclosure lip 10-5 is disposed around the perimeter of the frame 10. The frame enclosure lip 10-5 is configured to substantially abut the wall surface 1 (not shown in this view) such that a front edge of a properly installed wall box does not substantially touch the rear side 10-2 of the frame 10. This is true even when old work boxes are deployed. Old work boxes, of course, have flanges that are mounted to the outer surface of the wall surface 1. The frame enclosure lip 10-5 raises the rear surface 10-2 overtop the work box to avoid any interference with the flanges and prevent the frame 10 from contacting the wall surface 1.

As shown, the frame 10 includes a frame opening 10-13 that has an interior serrated edge or lip 10-6 that is configured to mate with the modular alignment conductors 20 and/or the electrical wiring device 100 in the manner disclosed below. Once electrical wiring device(s) and/or the modular alignment connectors are installed within the frame opening 10-13, the enclosure is completed. The interior serrated lip 10-6 extends along lateral portions of the frame opening 10-13 to adjoin a connector landing element 10-7 disposed at either end of the frame opening 10-13. The interior serrated lips 10-6 and the connector landing elements 10-7 extend perpendicularly around the entire frame opening 10-12 to form a rim or skirt that is inserted inwardly within the device box interior during installation. Accordingly, the region under the rear frame surface 10-2 between the outer enclosure lip 10-5 and the interior rim (i.e., serrated lips 10-6 and landing 10-7) is disposed over the wall surface 1. Once the wall box fasteners 10-10 are inserted into the fastener slots 10-12 and tightened, the interior of the device box is accessed via the frame opening 10-13. After device installation, however, the frame opening 10-13 is completely occupied by some combination of modular wiring devices (30, 40, 42 or 50) and/or modular alignment connectors 20 to thereby complete the enclosure. All of the wiring is under the frame assembly and cannot be accessed.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIGS. 2A-2D, perspective views of a modular alignment connector 20 in accordance with the present invention are disclosed. The modular alignment connector 20 is said to be modular because it adjusts and aligns the size of the frame opening such that various combinations of wiring devices (e.g., 30, 40, and 42) disposed in a variety of spatial orientations are used to complete the frame opening 10-13 when they are installed therein.

FIG. 2A shows a front major surface 20-1 of the modular alignment connector 20 (when it is inserted within the frame opening 10-13). The front major surface 20-1 of the modular alignment connector 20 has a width of approximately 11.2 mm and a length of about 45 mm. One pair of the alignment connectors 20 are the same size as a one-module electrical wiring device. The front major surface 20-1 includes a front connector flange 20-6 which is configured to fit within the frame connector seat 10-14 when the connector is inserted within the frame 10. The modular alignment connector 20 also includes bending snap arms 20-3 and spacer tangs 20-4 disposed on either side of the connector 20. A spacer channel 20-5 is disposed between the snap arm 20-3 and the spacer tang 20-4. As their name suggests, the snap arms 20-3 are used to “snap” the alignment connector 20 into the frame opening 10-13. Subsequently, the spacer tang 20-4 is pressed into the spacer channel 20-5 to lock the modular alignment connector 20 into the frame opening 10-13. The locked snap arms 20-3 retain the alignment connector 20 within the frame opening 10-13 thereafter. Stated differently, when a spacer tang 20-4 is inserted into a channel 20-5, the snap arm 20-3 can no longer deflect inwardly and thus cannot be removed from place. The snap connect assembly (20-3, 20-4, and 20-5) is configured to withstand at least 50 foot-pounds of pulling force.

Reference is made to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/608,675, which is incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth in its entirety, for a more detailed explanation of the frame member 10.

FIG. 2B shows the modular alignment connector 20 rotated 180° with respect to the view provided by FIG. 2A. The front stabilizing plate 20-6 and the rear connector flanges 20-7 form a connector channel 20-8 that is configured to grip the frame connector landing 10-7 (See FIGS. 1A-1B). The front stabilizing plate 20-6 is seated on the frame connector seat 10-14 when the alignment connector 20 is inserted into the frame opening 10-13. The purpose of the front stabilizing plate 20-6 is to help the connector 20 retain its position within the frame opening 10-13 by preventing it from being pushed inwardly and through frame opening 10-13.

FIG. 2C is a rear view of the modular alignment connector 20. This view shows a rear major surface 20-2 that is supported underneath by device stop elements 20-9. Like the serrated stop elements 10-60 of the serrated lip 10-6, the device stop elements 20-9 are configured to engage and mate with the device snap elements formed in the modular wiring device housing (See elements 30-2, 40-2, etc., depicted in FIG. 5) to complete the electrical enclosure. This snap-fit arrangement fixes the modular wiring device (30-2, 40-2) within the opening 10-13 such that it cannot move laterally or longitudinally within the frame opening 10-13 when snapped in place. Stated differently, the interior serrated lips 10-6 and device stop elements 20-9 serve to secure and align the electrical wiring device (30, 40, 50, etc.) within the frame opening 10-13.

FIG. 2D shows the modular connector 20 rotated 180° with respect to the view provided by FIG. 2C. When inserted into the frame opening 10-13, the rear stabilizing plate 20-7 bears against edges of the connector landing 10-7 (See FIGS. 1A-1B). Again, the front stabilizing plate 20-6 and the rear stabilizing plate 20-7 form a channel 20-8 that restricts the movement of the modular alignment connector 20 after being seated on the connector seat 10-14. As the connector 20 is moved to this seated position, bending snap arms 20-3 are deflected inwardly by the interior serrated lip 10-6 until they clear and snap back outwardly into the serrations. Again, the bending snap arms 20-3 prevent the connector 20 from sliding or moving out of its seated position.

Reference is made to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/608,675, which is incorporated herein by reference as though fully set forth in its entirety, for a more detailed explanation of the modular alignment connector 20.

As embodied herein and depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B, isometric views of the push-switch 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention are disclosed. FIG. 3A shows a front isometric view of the push switch 100. Push switch 100 includes an actuator plate 102 that includes a lens structure 104 that is configured to allow light from a light source disposed in an internal portion of switch 100 to be emitted into the ambient environment. Actuator plate 102 is substantially square shaped and covers a major portion of the front surface of push switch 100. FIG. 3B shows a rear isometric view of switch 100 and features the back body portion 108.

In reference to FIGS. 4A-4B, isometric views of the push switch 100 are shown prior to their insertion into the frame 10 depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B are disclosed. Because push switch 100 is implemented herein in a two-module form factor, a pair of modular alignment connectors 20 is disposed at either end of the frame opening 10-13 to “complete the enclosure.” In FIG. 4A, the two-module push-switch 100 is disposed upright between the two connectors 20 to complete the enclosure. In FIG. 4B, the two-module push-switch 100 is disposed sideways between the two connectors 20 to complete the enclosure. Push switch 100 may be oriented in any direction including upside down.

Referring to FIG. 5, an exploded view of the push switch 100 depicted in FIG. 3A is disclosed. The push switch 100 includes a switch actuator plate 102 coupled to a slidable actuator guide 110. Slidable actuator guide 110 includes a perimeter wall 110-4 that forms an enclosure. The slidable actuator guide 110 is configured to accommodate light guide 104-1 therein. The light guide includes two 45° mirrored sections that are configured to direct the light emitted by an insertable lighting device (not shown in this view). The slidable actuator guide 110 also includes two snap-in hinges that accommodate the trunions 114-1 formed at either end of the force transmission element 114. Note however, that the stabilizer element 112 prevents the force transmission element 114 from rotating freely. The center portion 112-1 of the stabilizer 112 snaps into the top middle portion of the force transmission element 114 and the bearing elements 112-2 restrain the underside of the trunions 114-1. Thus, the stabilizer element 112 provides stability to the transmission element 114 such that transmission element's rotational movement is substantially limited to about +/−8° around the centerline. This feature allows the transmission element 114 to effectively transmit the linear push force provided by the user via actuation plate 102 to the rotatable actuator 116 without the gear teeth 114-2 becoming jammed or misaligned visa vis actuator 116.

The rotating actuator 116 is mounted on a center opening formed in the separator member 106. As shown below, rotating actuator 116 includes a V-shaped portion or a notch that secures the switch pendulum 120 to the rotatable actuator 116. A center spring element 118 is disposed between the rotatable actuator 116 and the pendulum 120; the spring element 118 provides a “snap-action” to the switch mechanism as it moves between switch positions.

The separator 106 also includes four bosses 106-1 that are situated at the four corners of the separator 106. In one embodiment, each boss 106-1 accommodates a compression spring 106-2. The bosses 106-1 and the springs 106-2 mate with guide openings 110-1 formed at the corners of the slidable actuator guide 110. Thus, when the user applies a push force to the actuator plate 102, the slidable actuator guide 110 compresses the springs 106-2 as the bosses 106-1 move within the guide openings 110-1 formed in slidable guide 110. Once the push force is removed, the springs 106-2 release their stored energy and push the slidable guide 110 in the opposite direction to restore equilibrium. In an alternate embodiment (shown in FIG. 7C), only two springs 106-2 are required. Obviously, in the two-spring embodiment, the spring force of each spring 106-2 must be increased relative to the four spring embodiment.

Note also that the separator 106 includes stiffeners 106-4 formed in the upper side thereof to stabilize the shape of the separator. As explained in greater detail below, the guide posts 110-3 and the channels 110-4 also mate with registration elements (108-1, 108-2) formed in the back body 108. Thus, the slidable actuator guide 110 is restrained from above and below to prevent an off-center push-force applied to actuator plate 102 from jamming the switch. Stated differently, the combination of the springs 106-2 (in either embodiment) and the multi-level registration features (i.e., 106-4, 106-5, 108-1, 108-2) ensure that the slidable guide member travels straight and true. In other words, the slidable guide member does not jam due to features incorporated in both the separator and the back body. Moreover, because the slidable guide member is constrained on either side by the separator and the back body, dust and other contaminants are substantially prevented from penetrating to the interior of the back body 108 where the pendulum switch 120 resides.

In reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, a sectional view of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A is disclosed. In FIG. 6A, the sectional line B-B is through the line terminal 122 and traveler terminal 124 (not shown in FIG. 6A). In FIG. 6B, the switch actuator plate 102 is shown as being coupled to the slidable guide member 110. The light guide 104-1 is disposed in an upper portion of the guide 110 and one end thereof is coupled to the lens 104 formed in the switch actuator plate 102. The slidable guide member 110 substantially encloses the interior of the switch mechanism. As noted above, portions of the side walls of the slidable guide member 110 are disposed between the back body member 108 and the registration columns 108-2, and the back body and separator such that dust and contaminants cannot penetrate to the interior of the device 100. The force transmission member 114 is flexibly held in a substantially upright position such that gear teeth 114-1 are substantially disposed within the void formed in the interior of rotatable actuator 116. As shown here, the rotatable actuator 116 is slightly rotated such that its centerline is substantially in the One O'clock position. In this state, the pendulum is snapped into its switch position by switch spring 118. In particular, the pendulum contact 120-1 and traveler contact 126-2 are closed. Of course, the pendulum contact 120-1 is electrically continuous with the line terminal 122 because it rotates within the cradle 122-1 portion of the line terminal 122. Pendulum switch 120 is further protected from dust contamination by walls 108-6. In an embodiment of the invention, walls 108-6 form a pocket in which pendulum switch 120 resides.

In reference to FIGS. 7A-7C, alternate sectional views of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A are shown. These views are provided to again illustrate the contaminant prevention features of the present invention. FIG. 7A provides an upper sectional line E-E (FIG. 7B) and a lower sectional line C-C (FIG. 7C). In reference to FIG. 7B, the back body 108 includes relatively wide registration columns 108-2 disposed in parallel with the y-axis and relatively smaller registration posts 108-1 disposed in parallel with the x-axis. Registration posts 108-1 are accommodated by the guide channels 110-3. The wide registration columns 108-2 are accommodated by the guide channels 110-2 formed in the slidable guide member 110. Moreover, the bosses 106-1 formed in the separator 106 are shown as being disposed within the guide openings 110-1 formed in the slidable guide member 110. Thus, the slidable guide member 110 slidably moves within tightly defined channels formed by the back body 108 and the separator to prevent contaminants from fouling the switch mechanism. Even if dust or other such contaminants were to find their way into these extremely narrow channels, they would merely collect within the space formed between the bottom of the guide 110 and the separator 106. The separator 106 (See FIG. 5) includes a domed or arched shape that accommodates the switch mechanism, and thus acts like a dust cover of contaminant shield. Further, since the registration posts 108-1 and registration columns 108-2 are disposed behind the guide walls 110-4 (i.e., inside the channels 110-2, 110-3), the guide enclosure 110 shields the guide channels (110-2, 110-3) from any dust or other such contaminants that might enter the device 100 via the small gap between the guide 110 and the back body 108. Thus, the guide enclosure 110-4 substantially prevents switch jamming or sticking due to accumulation of contaminants. Because the guide enclosure substantially inhibits dust and other contaminants, the clearances between the registration elements (108-1, 108-2) and the guide channels (110-2, 110-3) are relatively small. These tight tolerances substantially limit any skewing of slidable guide member 110 (and hence prevent jamming) when the actuator plate 102 is pushed by the user at an oblique angle (i.e., off-axis). Thus the push switch 100 of the present invention will not jam as a consequence of being in a dusty environment or because of actuator plate 102 being pushed at an oblique angle (off-axis).

In Reference to FIG. 7C, the compression springs 106-2 are shown as being disposed within the guide openings 110-1. The registration columns 108-2 and posts 108-1, function as before: the slidable guide member 110 is constrained both above and below, and also laterally, by the various elements described above such that it slides linearly without the possibility of being jammed by going askew.

In reference to FIGS. 8A-8B, yet another sectional view of the push switch depicted in FIG. 3A is disclosed. In this view, the arrangement of the insertable lighting mechanism relative to the switch mechanism is shown. FIG. 8A shows cross-sectional line D-D through the rear portion of back body member 108. In particular, the sectional line cuts through light tunnel opening 108-3. Moving from left to right in FIG. 8B, the sectional line cuts through the switch mechanism as previously described. The force transmission element 114 is disposed over the rotatable actuator 116. Of course, the rotatable actuator 116 is configured to move the pendulum contact 120-1 between the traveler contacts (124-1, 126-1) in response to the application of a push force to the switch actuation plate 102.

With respect to the sectional line D-D, note that is proceeds in a straight line from the left of the device until it reaches the center point of the device 100; after this the sectional line D-D proceeds in an angular direction to expose the light tunnel 108-3. Briefly stated, the insertable light 30 is an optional feature. If the user desires to use it, it is inserted from the rear of the back body 108 into the light tunnel 108-3 until the light emitter portion 30-3 abuts the stop portion 106-3 formed in the separator member 106. When this occurs, the light emitting head 30-3 is positioned within the slidable guide member 110 proximate and adjacent to one end of the light pipe 104-1. This portion of the slidable guide member 110 includes a polished interior region 110-30 that directs the emitted light into the light pipe 104-1. As noted previously, the light pipe 104-1 includes two 45° bends that direct the light toward lens 104 where it is emitted out into the ambient environment. Due to these bends in the light pipe, lens 104, transmission element 114, and pendulum 120 are all in substantially alignment with the central axis of push switch 100. At the other end of the lighting device 30, hot and neutral pig-tails (2, 4) extend backwardly from the light tunnel for connection to the line terminal 122 and a traveler terminal (124 or 126), to traveler terminals (124,126), to an auxiliary power supply, or to line hot and neutral conductors, respectively.

In reference to FIGS. 9A-9E, various sectional views illustrating the operation of the push switch 100 depicted in FIG. 3A are disclosed. In FIG. 9A, the force transmission element 114 is shown in a rest position (i.e., the user is not applying any force to plate 102). The pendulum contact 120-1 and the traveler contact 126-1 are closed. The transmission element 114 includes two gear teeth 114-2, each of which is configured to transmit the user's applied linear actuation force to a respective actuation surface 116-2 disposed on either side of the rotational axis 116-1. In FIG. 9B, the user applies a push force P1 (See arrows) to the switch actuation plate 102 such that one of the gear teeth 114-2 makes contact with its respective actuation surface 116-2, whichever of the two surfaces is higher due to the rotational position of pendulum 120 (one surface or the other is higher due to the switch state established by the spring switch 118).

In FIG. 9C, as the amount of plate 102 displacement increases, the force transmission element 114 responds by beginning to rotate while sliding along the actuation surface 116-2 in the direction R1. As shown in FIG. 9D, when the gear tooth 114-2 engages the inner lip 116-4 of the rotatable actuator 116, it causes the rotatable actuator to rotate in the opposite direction R2. At the same time, the gear tooth 114-2 that is not engaged slips into the central void 116-3 of the rotatable actuator 116. At some point in the sequence, the spring switch 118 snaps to cause the pendulum 120 to rotate in the direction R3 (opposite of R2) to change the switch state, and cause the pendulum contact 120-1 to engage the traveler contact 124-1. In FIG. 9E, the user is no longer applying pressure to the actuation plate 102 and the spring forces associated with the springs 106-2 causes the slidable guide member 110 to move away from the separator and back body to thus return to the rest state with contacts 120-1 and 124-1 being closed.

If plate 102 is then pushed again the process is repeated only this time the actuation surface 116-2 on the left is higher and so is the one that gets depressed by its respective gear tooth 114-2. Pendulum 120 rotates in the opposite direction until it returns to the switch state shown in FIG. 9A under the snap action of switch spring 118.

Referring to FIGS. 10A-10B, various views of the push-switch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention are disclosed. In FIG. 10A, the push switch 200 is configured in a standard wiring device form factor. The switch actuator 202 is implemented in a rectangular design that conforms to the rectangular shape of the back body 208. One difference between this embodiment and the previous embodiments relates to the mounting ears 203 coupled to the back body 208. The mounting ears 203 typically include a ground terminal configured to secure a ground conductor thereto. The mounting ears are employed, of course, to mount the device 200 directly to the device box 300. Once the device 200 is mounted to the device box 300, the cover plate 201 is disposed overtop to complete the enclosure. FIG. 10B is frontal view of the switch device 200 in combination with the cover plate 201. Once the cover plate 201 is attached, only the front cover 202 and lens 204 (if provided) are visibly through the cover plate 201 opening.

The components employed in FIGS. 10A and 10B are essentially the same as those used in previous embodiments. Similar reference numbers are being used to refer to the same or like parts with the exception that 200 series numbers are employed in this embodiment instead of 100 series numbers.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening.

The recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein.

All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not impose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed.

No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. There is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A switch device comprising: a device housing configured to be installed in an outlet box, the device housing including front portion and a back body portion; a switch assembly disposed in the device housing, the switch assembly including a switch actuator having a user-accessible surface and coupled to the front portion, the user accessible surface including an indicator element disposed therein, the switch actuator also including an interior channel optically coupled to the indicator element, the switch assembly further including a mechanical linkage and a set of electrical contacts disposed within the back body portion, the switch actuator being configured to actuate the mechanical linkage by moving between a first actuator position and a second actuator position in response to a user-stimulus, the mechanical linkage actuation driving the set of electrical contacts between a first contact and a second contact, and wherein the switch actuator includes a light transmitting element having a first optical port and a second optical port, the first port being coupled to the indicator element and the second port being coupled to the interior channel, and wherein the first optical port is substantially aligned with a central axis of the device housing and the second optical port is substantially offset from the axis; and a lighting assembly coupled to the back body portion at a fixed position so that a light emitting portion of the lighting assembly is disposed within the interior channel and optically coupled to the indicator element, the interior channel being configured to move relative to the light emitting portion when the switch actuator moves between the first actuator position and the second actuator position, the light emitting portion being optically coupled to the indicator element when the interior channel moves relative to the lighting portion.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the lighting assembly is a modular component removably coupled to the back body portion.
 3. The device of claim 1, wherein the back body portion includes an elongated chamber configured to accommodate the lighting assembly, the elongated chamber including a tapered portion configured to position the light emitting portion at the fixed position.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the switch actuator includes a light transmitting element configured to optically couple the interior channel to the indicator element.
 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the light transmitting element is in a fixed positional relationship with the interior channel.
 6. The device of claim 4, wherein the light transmitting element includes an LED element.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein the light transmitting element includes a plurality of light transmitting segments disposed between the first port and the second ports.
 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the plurality of light transmitting segments includes at least one portion configured to direct incident light at a 45° angle.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein the interior channel is polished.
 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the interior channel is plated with an optically reflective material.
 11. The device of claim 1, wherein the set of electrical contacts are switchably coupled to a plurality of terminals at least partially disposed in the back body portion, the plurality of terminals being accessible via the back body portion.
 12. The device of claim 10, wherein the plurality of terminals including a line terminal, a load terminal or a traveler terminal.
 13. The device of claim 1, wherein the indicator element is a lens element.
 14. The device of claim 13, wherein the lens element is formed by machining a portion of the user accessible surface.
 15. A switch device comprising: a switch actuator assembly including a switch actuation plate coupled to an actuator guide portion having a perimeter guide wall substantially enclosing an interior volume therewithin, the actuator guide portion being coupled to a force transmission member and further including an interior channel, the switch actuation plate including a lens element optically coupled to a light transmission structure at least partially disposed in the interior channel; a back body member includes a perimeter back body wall, portions of the perimeter back body wall being configured to mate with corresponding portions of the perimeter guide wall so that the perimeter guide wall is disposed within the perimeter back body wall in a nesting arrangement so that the interior volume is substantially inaccessible to an exterior region of the device, the back body member including an elongated chamber configured to position a lighting element at a fixed position within the back body so that the lighting element extends into the interior channel, the actuator guide being configured to slide within the back body member in a substantially linear motion between a non-switch actuating position and a switch actuating position so that a relative distance between the light transmission structure and the lighting element varies within the interior channel, the interior channel being configured so that light intensity emitted by the lighting element via the lens element is substantially constant while the relative distance varies; and a switch assembly configured to convert the linear motion of the actuator guide into a rotational movement when the switch actuator plate is depressed so that the switch assembly moves between a first switch state and a second switch state.
 16. The device of claim 15, wherein the interior channel is polished.
 17. The device of claim 15, wherein the interior channel is plated with an optically reflective material.
 18. The device of claim 15, wherein the light transmitting element includes a first optical port and a second optical port, the first port being coupled to the lens element and the second port being coupled to the interior channel, and wherein the first optical port is substantially aligned with a central axis of the device housing and the second optical port is substantially offset from the axis.
 19. The device of claim 18, wherein the light transmitting element includes a plurality of light transmitting segments disposed between the first port and the second ports.
 20. The device of claim 19, wherein the plurality of light transmitting segments includes at least one portion configured to direct incident light at a 45° angle.
 21. The device of claim 15, wherein the actuator guide portion includes a plurality of guide portions formed in the perimeter wall within the interior volume, the perimeter back body wall having a plurality of registration elements, each of the plurality of registration elements being insertably disposed within a corresponding one of the plurality of guide portions.
 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the plurality of registration elements are configured to substantially prevent rotational movement of the actuator guide within the back body member about an axis of the switch device normal to the direction of linear movement.
 23. The device of claim 21, wherein the plurality of registration elements are configured to substantially prevent rotational movement of the actuator guide within the back body member about the central axis.
 24. The device of claim 21, wherein the plurality of guide portions includes a first guide channel and a second guide channel formed on a first perimeter guide wall and a second perimeter guide wall, respectively, and a first guide post and a second guide post formed on a third perimeter guide wall and a fourth perimeter guide wall, respectively.
 25. The device of claim 24, wherein the plurality of registration elements includes a first registration column and a second registration column configured to be inserted within the first guide channel and the second guide channel, respectively, so that the first registration column, the second registration column, the first guide channel and the second guide channel are substantially disposed within the interior volume.
 26. The device of claim 25, wherein the plurality of registration elements includes a first registration key way and a second registration key way configured to retain therewithin the first guide post and the second guide post, respectively, so that the first registration key way, the second registration key way, the first guide post and the second guide post are substantially disposed outside the interior volume.
 27. The device of claim 15, wherein the lighting element includes a light emitting diode.
 28. The device of claim 27, wherein the back body includes a rear portion coupled to the perimeter back body wall, the elongated chamber including an ingress aperture formed in the rear portion, and wherein the lighting element is removably disposed in the elongated chamber.
 29. The device of claim 28, wherein the lighting element is directly terminated to a source of AC power.
 30. The device of claim 15, wherein the switch actuator assembly includes a transmission mechanism coupled to the actuator guide, the transmission mechanism being configured to convert the linear motion of the actuator guide into a rotational movement when the switch actuator plate is depressed and the actuator guide is driven toward the switch actuating position.
 31. The device of claim 30, wherein the transmission mechanism includes a plurality of gear teeth, the plurality of gear teeth being configured to apply a rotational movement to the mechanical switch mechanism in response to the linear motion of the actuator guide.
 32. The device of claim 30, further comprising a switch actuator portion coupled between the transmission mechanism and at least a portion of the mechanical switch assembly, the switch actuator portion being configured to move the mechanical switch assembly between the first switch state and the second switch state in response to the rotational movement of the transmission mechanism.
 33. The device of claim 15, further comprising a housing having a front portion and a back body portion, the housing being configured to be installed in an outlet box.
 34. The device of claim 33, wherein the mechanical switch mechanism includes a set of electrical contacts switchably coupled to a plurality of terminals at least partially disposed in the back body portion, the plurality of terminals being accessible via the back body portion.
 35. The device of claim 24, wherein the plurality of terminals including a line terminal, a load terminal or a traveler terminal.
 36. The device of claim 33, wherein the housing assembly further comprises a separator member coupled between the back body member and the switch actuator assembly, the separator member providing a barrier between the mechanical switch assembly and the interior volume.
 37. The device of claim 36, wherein the separator member includes at least one ancillary registration element configured to mate with a corresponding structure disposed in the perimeter guide wall. 